Credit:
Michael Simon

Dancing With the Stars 2013 marked the first time in many years that the show is condensed into one night, and with that came some shocking eliminations. Because of the way fan votes were combined with judges’ scores, contestants could score the first 10 of the season and be eliminated in the same night — as seen with Christina Millian and Mark Ballas — or, on the flip side, someone with low scores could be saved by their fanbase.

When asked about how she’s feeling the day after elimination, she admits she’s “a little sad” and “deflated” since they left before they could really show their talents. “We had high hopes of making the semi-finals and I just feel like we didn’t have a chance to show them everything we wanted to. I wanted it so badly for Brant. His technique and his standard of dancing were amazing,” she continues. “He was so good and I know the judges all saw that in him.”

As for all of their kissing on (and off) the ballroom floor, though? Peta stresses that they are not a couple — they’re just besties.

“Look, I told Brant at the start of this season that the tabloids will have us sleeping together in two weeks. He expected it and I expected it. But we’re just very close friends,” she says. And though they won’t Tango together, they’ll still keep in touch. “He’s a friend for life,” she tells us. “He’s not getting away from me.”

While Brant will likely go back to the Pretty Little Liars set, Peta will stay busy in the ballroom with the troupe and in classes making sure she’s a triple threat. “I can’t sit still for very long,” she says of her newfound free time. “I’m going to go straight back to my acting and singing classes. I won’t be doing nothing, that’s for sure!”

Additionally, now that she’s not eligible for the Mirror Ball, she’s ready to cheer her fellow pros on. So, who does Peta think will take home the coveted trophy? “If it’s based on talent, I think it will Corbin, Elizabeth, Amber, and Jack,” she says. “I think it’s going to be a very strong finals.”

What do you think, DWTS fans? Will those four make it to the finals? Sound off below, and catch the show on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.